Grangemouth practice cuts patients after GPs depart

James Trimble

A medical practice is advising patients to register elsewhere following GP departures in the last couple of months.

Two doctors have left Kersiebank Medical Practice, Kersiebank Avenue, Grangemouth, since December and a further two are leaving next month. The practice is now reducing its catchment area and advising patients from Polmont, Skinflats and Falkirk to register with other practices.

East Falkirk MP Michael Connarty is concerned by the move.

He said: “This happened in the Linlithgow area and it was a mess, taking people out of their practice. I just hope proper consultations will be held with patients.”

An NHS Forth Valley spokesperson said: “Recent changes at Kersiebank have resulted in concerns over future capacity and access to appointments. Although the practice has advertised for replacement doctors they are finding it difficult to recruit GPs.

“To help support our medical practices we are currently advertising to recruit a team of salaried GPs who would be available to provide support to local practices with capacity challenges.

“To help manage the current demand, it has been agreed Kersiebank Medical Practice catchment area should be reduced. Patients who are affected will receive a letter setting out their options to join other local practices which have the capacity to accept new patients.”